Motion sensitive and capacitor powered handheld device

ABSTRACT

A handheld device includes an electronic instrument and a capacitive power supply for storing and delivering power to the electronic instrument. The capacitive power supply includes at least one capacitor, and an electronic circuit operable to boost a voltage from the capacitor to a higher voltage for use by the electronic instrument. The capacitive power supply can be rapidly recharged. Some configurations include an accelerometer which permits the handheld device to detect movement and perform various operations responsive to detected movement. A dual charging station is also disclosed.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 61/547,400, titledCAPACITIVE POWER SUPPLY VARIABLE CONTROL AND ACCESSORIES FOR HANDHELDDEVICE, filed on Oct. 14, 2011, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Healthcare providers, such as doctors and nurses, frequently usehandheld devices when providing healthcare. Many of these handhelddevices include electrical devices that must be powered by electricity.One example of such a handheld device is an otoscope, which includes alight to illuminate a patient's ear canal during an examination. It issometimes desirable to adjust the electrical device, such as to increaseor decrease the brightness of the light.

Some handheld instruments include a power cable that can be plugged intoa wall receptacle to deliver power to the handheld device. The powercable limits the use of the handheld instrument to locations near a wallreceptacle. The power cable is also inconvenient because it can inhibitfree movement of the handheld device.

Batteries are sometimes used in handheld devices to overcome thedrawbacks of power cables. While batteries do allow the healthcareprovider to freely move the device independent of a wall receptacle,batteries have their own limitations. Batteries must be periodicallyrecharged or replaced. Batteries are also slow to recharge, and so thehandheld device may be out of service for some time. In addition,batteries have a limited life, and can be harmful to the environment ifnot disposed of or recycled properly.

SUMMARY

In general terms, this disclosure is directed to a motion sensitive andcapacitor powered device. In one possible configuration and bynon-limiting example, the device is a handheld medical device.

One aspect is a handheld medical device comprising: an electronicdevice; a power source; an accelerometer operable to detect movement andorientation of the handheld medical device; and a processing devicecommunicatively coupled to the accelerometer and configured toautomatically adjust an ON/OFF state of the electronic device based atleast in part on (i) a detected movement of the medical device, and (ii)a detected orientation of the medical device at a time of the detectedmovement.

Another aspect is a battery replacement device comprising: a packagingincluding at least a positive terminal and a negative terminal, thepacking having a size and shape of at least one battery; at least onecapacitor disposed in the packaging; and a mimic circuit electricallycoupled to receive power from the capacitor and deliver the power to atleast one of the positive and negative terminals, wherein the mimiccircuit changes an output characteristic of the capacitor into an outputcharacteristic of the battery.

A further aspect is A dual charging station comprising: a base includingfirst and second connectors and at least one electrical conductorelectrically connecting the first connector with the second connector; amaster station having a power cord adapted to receive mains power from awall receptacle, to connect with the first connector, and to supply atleast some of the mains power to the electrical conductor at the firstconnector; and a slave station adapted to connect with the secondconnector and receive the at least some of the mains power from theelectrical conductor at the second connector.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example handheld device.

FIG. 2 is an electrical block diagram of the example handheld device,including an instrument and a power handle.

FIG. 3 is an electrical block diagram illustrating another example ofthe power handle shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 illustrates an arrangement of FIGS. 4A and 4B.

FIG. 4A is a first portion of an electrical schematic of an exampleboost converter of the example power handle shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 4B is a second portion of the electrical schematic shown in FIG.4A.

FIG. 5 is an electrical schematic of an example boost regulator and aprogrammable controller of the example power handle shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example variable control of thehandheld device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a plan view of another example variable control.

FIG. 8 is a plan view of the example variable control shown in FIG. 7,which illustrates the receipt of an input from a user.

FIG. 9A is a first schematic diagram illustrating the detectedcapacitances at several capacitance sensors upon receipt of the inputshown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 9B is a second schematic diagram illustrating the detectedcapacitances at several capacitance sensors upon receipt of the inputshown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 9C is a third schematic diagram illustrating the detectedcapacitances at several capacitance sensors upon receipt of the inputshown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of theaccelerometer circuitry.

FIG. 11 illustrates several exemplary operations that can be performedby a handheld device.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an example method of turning ON aninstrument.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating an example method of turning OFF aninstrument.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating an instrumentin a transportation mode.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating a method of automatically turningOFF an instrument when the instrument is not in use.

FIG. 16 illustrates a discharge curve of a capacitor.

FIG. 17 illustrates a discharge curve of a battery, and the modifieddischarge curve provided by a mimic circuit shown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 18 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a mimic circuitinterfacing between a capacitor and electronics.

FIG. 19 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example packagingof a capacitor and mimic circuit.

FIG. 20 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example of themimic circuit shown in FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a schematic block diagram illustrating another examplepackaging of multiple capacitors and a mimic circuit.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an example dual charging station.

FIG. 23 is another perspective view of the example dual charging stationwith one of the charging stations being removed.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a base of the charging station that isremoved in FIG. 23.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to thedrawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts andassemblies throughout the several views. Reference to variousembodiments does not limit the scope of the claims attached hereto.Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are notintended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possibleembodiments for the appended claims.

FIG. 1 is schematic perspective view of an example handheld device 100.In this example, the handheld device 100 includes an instrument 102 anda power handle 104. Some embodiments further include a charging station106 for recharging the handheld device 100.

An example of instrument 102 is an otoscope, which includes anadjustable optics assembly 110, an adjustment control 112, and a lightsource 114. An otoscope can be used by a healthcare provider during apatient encounter to view inside a patient's ear canal. To do so, thehealthcare provider inserts the end of the otoscope into the ear canal,where it is illuminated by the light source 114. The healthcare providerthen looks through the optics assembly 110 and adjusts the focus, ifnecessary, using the adjustment control 112. As discussed below, thelight source is powered by the power handle 104. Power is transferredthrough conductors within the instrument.

A wide variety of instruments 102 can be used in other embodiments. Insome embodiments, the instrument 102 is a medical examinationinstrument, such as an otoscope, an ophthalmoscope, a thermometer, asphygmomanometer, a skin surface microscope, a unidirectional occluder,an examination light, an electronic stethoscope, a tympanometricinstrument, an audiometer, or a variety of other medical examinationinstruments. In other embodiments, the instrument 102 is a therapeuticdevice, such as a surgical instrument, a drug delivery or measurementinstrument, or other therapeutic devices. Although exemplary embodimentsare described as handheld medical devices, other embodiments arepossible, such as non-handheld devices, or non-medical devices.

The power handle 104 forms a handle for the handheld device 100, and issized to be held in the hand of the healthcare provider. In thisexample, the power handle 104 includes a housing 120 and electroniccircuitry 122 within the housing 120. The electronic circuitry 122includes, for example, a power source 124. In some embodiments, thepower source 124 is one or more capacitors, as described in more detailherein. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry modifies the powercurve to mimic a power curve of one or more batteries. In someembodiments, the power source 124 includes one or more batteries,capacitors, power cords, power input ports, or other power sources orcombinations of these or other power sources. In some embodiments, thepower handle 104 further includes a variable control 126, and chargingcircuitry 128.

The housing 120 is, in some embodiments, sized and configured to be heldby a hand of a healthcare provider. The housing 120 is typically formedof materials such as metal or plastic, and forms a protective enclosurefor the electronic circuitry 122 contained within the housing 120. Insome embodiments the housing 120 includes a variable control 126 builtinto the housing, which may be include or be formed of an insulatingmaterial, such as plastic, as discussed herein.

In some embodiments, the housing 120 has a cross-sectional dimension D1sized to fit within a hand of a healthcare provider. In one example, thedimension D1 is in a range from about 0.5 inches to about 4 inches. Inanother example, the dimension D1 is in a range from about 0.5 inches toabout 3 inches. In yet another example, the dimension D1 is about oneinch. In some embodiments, dimension D1 is less than about 4 inches, 3inches, or 2 inches. In some embodiments, at least a portion of thehousing has a cylindrical shape, in which case the dimension D1 is thediameter of the housing.

In some embodiments, the housing 120 of the power handle 104 is sealed.Because some embodiments do not include batteries or other componentsthat need to be removed and replaced during the life of the power handle104, such embodiments do not require any doors or other openings, otherthan at the interface 140. Further, the interface 140 can also bepermanently connected and sealed in some embodiments. A sealed housing120 reduces the chance of water or other liquid or particle intrusioninto the interior of housing 120. A sealed housing 120 is also easier toclean and sanitize.

As discussed herein, some embodiments include a variable control 126that is enclosed within housing 120. This also prevents liquid orparticle intrusion into the housing at the location of the variablecontrol 126, improving the durability of the power handle 104.Similarly, some embodiments are powered with a rechargeable power sourcethat does not need to be replaced during the life of the power handle104. As a result, the power source can also be sealed within the housing120 and does not require any doors or other openings, other than at theinterface 140. A sealed housing 120 reduces the chance of water or otherliquid or particle intrusion into the interior of housing 120. A sealedhousing 120 is also easier to clean and sanitize.

The electronic circuitry 122 is a capacitive power supply that includesat least one capacitor that stores electrical energy. In someembodiments, the at least one capacitor forms the primary energy storagedevice of the handheld medical device.

In some embodiments, the power source 124 is a super capacitor(sometimes alternatively referred to as an ultra capacitor or a pseudocapacitor), which can store a large amount of electrical energy. In someembodiments, the capacitor includes a high capacitance, a high energydensity, and/or a high power density. In some embodiments, the supercapacitor has a capacitance of greater than about 100 F. Someembodiments have a power density of greater than 1,000 W/kg. Someembodiments have an energy density in a range from about 1 Wh/kg toabout 10 Wh/kg. In some embodiments, the power source 124 is one or moreelectric double layer capacitors (EDLC).

In some embodiments, the power source 124 is an electrochemicalcapacitor that has a high energy density when compared to commoncapacitors, typically on the order of thousands of times greater than ahigh capacity electrolytic capacitor. For example, a typical D-cellsized electrolytic capacitor may have a capacitance in the range of tensof milli-Farads. The same size electric double-layer capacitor may havea capacitance of several farads, an improvement of about two or threeorders of magnitude in capacitance, but may have a lower workingvoltage.

One example of a super capacitor is the pseudo electrochemical doublelayer capacitor distributed by Ioxus, Inc. of Oneonta, N.Y. Theseinclude the 220 F. model (Part No. RHE2R3227SR) having a power densityof about 2.65 kW/kg and an energy density of about 6.47 Wh/kg, the 800F. model (Part No. RHE2R3807SR) having a power density of about 1.82kW/kg and an energy density of about 6.46 Wh/kg, and the 1000 F. model(Part No. RHE2R3108SR) having a power density of about 1.57 kW/kg and anenergy density of about 6.12 Wh/kg. Two or more capacitors are combinedto achieve the desired characteristics, in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the at least one capacitor 124 stores a voltageequal to the maximum rated voltage of two cells in series. As oneexample, the maximum rated voltage of two cells in series is 4.6 v.Other embodiments utilize other voltages.

A capacitor's voltage decays rapidly over time. As a result, theelectronic circuitry 122 includes circuitry in some embodiments thatboosts the voltage to a desired level. Examples of the electroniccircuitry 122 are described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 2-5.Alternatively, in some embodiments the power source 124 itself includeselectronics that modify the capacitor power output curve to mimic apower curve of a battery or other power source, permitting the powersource 124 to be utilized in devices that are designed to be powered bybatteries. In some embodiments, the power source 124 is packaged in aform factor matching or similar to that of one or more batteries.

In another possible embodiment, the power source 124 is one or morebatteries, such as alkaline or rechargeable batteries, that storeelectrical energy for powering the instrument 102, as well as theelectronic circuitry 122. In some embodiments the power source 124 isnot contained within the housing 120. For example, a wall receptacle isused as a power source in some embodiments, which delivers power througha power cord plugged into or extending from the housing 120. Other powersources are used in other embodiments.

A variable control 126 is provided in some embodiments to permitadjustment of the amount of power delivered from the power handle 104 tothe instrument 102. One possible example of the variable control 126 isa rheostat control (also known as a potentiometer or variable resistor)that can be operated by the healthcare provider to adjust the amount ofpower delivered to the instrument 102, such as to increase or decreasethe intensity of the light source 114.

Another possible example of the variable control 126 is a capacitivesensing variable control, as described herein.

Some embodiments do not include a variable control, but rather includean on/off control. In yet another embodiment, an on/off control orvariable control is part of the instrument 102, rather than being a partof the handle 104.

The charging circuitry 128 is included in some embodiments to receivepower from the charging station 106 and to deliver the power to thecapacitor 124. The charging circuitry can include, for example, a coilfor receiving power through magnetic fields generated by a correspondingcoil of the charging station 106. The coils are placed into closeproximity to one another such that inductive coupling occurs between thecoils.

In another embodiment, a direct electrical connection is made betweenelectrical contacts accessible through the housing 120 (such as througha plug or port) and the charging station 106 for providing power to thepower handle.

Additional charging circuitry 128 can be included, such as a fuse,filtering electronics, and other charging electronics (such asregulators, inductors, capacitors, etc.) can be used to control orfilter power delivery to the capacitor 124.

The charging station 106 is provided to transfer power from a powersource, such as a wall receptacle, to the handheld device 100. Thecharging station 106 includes a housing 130, such as made of plastic,including a receptacle 132 for receiving the handheld device 100 whennot in use.

The housing 130 also forms a protective enclosure for chargingelectronics 134. The charging electronics 134 receive power from a wallreceptacle or other power source, through the power cable 136, andconverts the power into a form that can be transferred to the handhelddevice 100. For example, the charging electronics 134 can include analternating current (“AC”) to direct current (“DC”) converter forconverting the AC from the wall receptacle to a lower voltage DC signal.

In some embodiments the charging electronics include electrical contactsthat are shaped to make a direct electrical connection with electricalcontacts on the power handle 104 for direct power transfer. In anotherpossible embodiment, the charging electronics 134 include a coil forinductively transferring power to the power handle 104. In someembodiments, the charging electronics 134 includes a constant wattagecircuit, which provides energy at a rate equal to the maximum availableDC power. As an example, the maximum available DC power is in a rangefrom about 1 W to about 100 W. In another embodiment, the maximumavailable DC power is about 60 W. Other embodiments have other maximumavailable DC power values.

In some embodiments the instrument 102 is connected to the power handle104 at an interface 140. The interface typically includes a mechanicalinterface, such as mating screw threads, or a snap together connection,and also an electrical interface to transfer power from the power handle104 into the instrument 102. In some embodiments the instrument 102 canbe disconnected from the power handle 104 at the interface. A commoninterface 140 design can be used in a variety of different types ofinstruments, to permit a single configuration of power handle 104 to beused with multiple different types of instruments. In other possibleembodiments, however, instrument 102 is a single unit that includes thecomponents of the power handle 104 within the housing of instrument 102,rather than within a separate power handle.

FIG. 2 is an electrical block diagram illustrating an example of thehandheld device 100. As shown in FIG. 1, the example handheld device 100includes an instrument 102 and a power handle 104. In other embodiments,the power handle 104 is integrated with the instrument 100. Theinstrument 100 typically includes an electronic device, such as a lightsource 114.

In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry 122 of the power handle104 provides a substantially constant power and/or substantiallyconstant output voltage to the instrument 102 during operation. In someembodiments, the electronic circuitry 122 provides a power and voltageoutput that mimics the output of one or more batteries. In someembodiments, the power handle 104 includes, for example, a variablepower supply 150, a variable control 126, and a charging circuit 128.The variable power supply 150 typically includes a power source 124,such as including a super capacitor 124.

In some embodiments, the instrument 102 is an electronic instrumentincluding one or more electronic devices requiring electrical power,such as a light source 114. Examples of the light 114 include a halogenbulb and a light emitting diode. Other embodiments include otherelectronic devices or combinations of electronic devices within theinstrument 102. The instrument 102 receives power from the power handle104 through one or more conductors 144. The conductors 144 passelectrical power through the interface 140 between the power handle 104and the instrument 102.

The one or more electronic devices of the instrument 102, such as thelight 114, require a certain amount of power in order to function intheir intended manner. For example, if the voltage supplied to theelectronic devices falls below a minimum operating voltage, theelectronic devices will no longer function in their intended manner. Anexample of a minimum operating voltage is 3.5 v for a 3.5 v halogenbulb. Other embodiments have other minimum operating voltages.

In some embodiments, the minimum operating voltage is the minimumvoltage required to power the electronic instrument for effective use bya healthcare provider during a patient encounter. Accordingly, theelectronic circuitry 122 operates in some embodiments to maintain thevoltage at or above the minimum operating voltage, as described in moredetail herein. The power handle 104 includes the electronic circuitry122. In this example, the electronic circuitry 122 includes a capacitor124, charging circuitry 128, boost converter 152, and on/off control154.

The length of time that the instrument 102 can be powered by a singlecharge on capacitor 124 is a function of the power drawn by instrument102 and the capacity of the one or more capacitors 124. As an example, acapacitor 124 having a capacity of 3,000 Ws can supply 3 W of power tothe instrument 102 including a 3 W halogen bulb for about 15 minutes.The same capacitor can supply 1 W of power to an instrument 102including a 1 W LED bulb for about 50 minutes. As another example, acapacitor 124 having a capacity of 1800 Ws can supply 3 W of power for10 minutes, and 1 W of power for 30 minutes.

The charging circuitry 128 operates to charge the capacitor 124 when thepower handle is placed into the charging station 106 and the chargingstation 106 is connected to a power source. The power is converted to aform suitable for delivery to the capacitor, which can be charged veryrapidly. For example, some embodiments can charge the capacitor 124 froma fully depleted state to a fully charged state in less than one minute.

The charge time is a factor of the power capacity of the capacitor 124and the rate of power delivery from the charging station 106 to thecharging circuitry 128 and into the capacitor 124. As one example, thecapacitor 124 has a power capacity of 3,000 Ws, and the chargingcircuitry 128 can deliver 60 W of power to the capacitor 124. In thisexample, the capacitor 124 can be charged in 50 seconds. As anotherexample, the capacitor 124 has a power capacity of 1,800 Ws, and thecharging circuitry 128 can deliver 60 W of power to the capacitor 124.In this example, the capacitor 124 can be charged in approximately 30seconds. As a result, even if the handheld device 100 is not put backinto the charging station 106 until the capacitor 124 is fully depleted,the handheld device 100 can be fully charged in less than one minute, orcharged to a functional state in even less time.

During normal operation, the output of the capacitor 124 has a voltagethat decreases rapidly from the initial voltage. Most electronic devicesutilized in the instrument 102, such as the light 114, require at leasta minimum operating voltage that may not be directly provided by thecapacitor 124 after a period of time. If the voltage falls below theminimum operating voltage, the electronic device may cease to operate.

The boost converter 152 is provided to boost the voltage from thecapacitor 124 to a desired level so that the electronic devices in theinstrument 102 can continue to operate even after the voltage from thecapacitor 124 has decreased below the minimum operating voltage. In thisexample, the boost converter 152 provides a constant voltage output,despite the decreasing voltage from the capacitor 124. An example of theconstant voltage output is 3.6 v to power a 3.5 v halogen bulb. Otherembodiments provide other voltage outputs.

In some embodiments, the boost converter 152 is an out bound buck-boostcircuit that delivers a regulated output voltage until the voltage onthe at least one capacitor has dropped to the minimum voltage that thespecific electro-chemical construction allows.

As one example, some embodiments continue to supply the regulated outputvoltage until the voltage on the at least one capacitor 124 has droppedto approximately 0.5 v.

In this example, an on/off control 154 is provided in addition to thevariable control 126 to turn on or off the power handle 104. When theon/off control 154 is in an off position, the power handle 104 does notdeliver power to the instrument 102. When in the on position, the powerhandle 104 delivers power to the instrument 102, so long as adequatepower remains in the capacitor 124.

In some embodiments, the operation of the electronic device is variable.For example, the light source 114 is a dimmable bulb, which generates avariable intensity light output depending on the power received from thevariable power supply. In some embodiments the light source 114 isadjustable between an off state and a full intensity state by adjustinga voltage supplied to the light source 114. In another embodiment, thelight source 114 is adjustable by adjusting a duty cycle of apulse-width modulated signal supplied to light source 114.

The variable power supply 150 generates an output that is delivered toinstrument 102, such as through the interface 140. The output is used topower the light source 114, or other electronic devices in instrument102. In some embodiments, the variable power supply provides a variablevoltage output. In other embodiments, the variable power supply providesa variable power output, such as by pulse-width modulating the outputsignal.

The variable control 126 receives input from the user, which is passedto the variable power supply 150 and used by the variable power supply150 to adjust the output. One example of the variable control 126 isshown in FIG. 3, and other examples are illustrated and describedherein.

Some embodiments include charging circuit 128 that operates to chargethe power source 124 when the power handle is placed into a chargingstation or plugged into a charging cord. The charging station orcharging cord typically receives power from a wall receptacle. Thecharging circuit 128 converts the power into a form suitable fordelivery to the power source 124.

FIG. 3 is an electrical block diagram illustrating another example ofthe power handle 104. In this example, the power handle 104 includeselectronic circuitry 122 including a capacitor as power source 124, avariable control 126, charging circuitry 128, and a variable powersupply 150. In this example, the variable power supply includes a boostconverter 152, a boost regulator 170, and a programmable controller 172.In this example, the power handle 104 provides a user variable powerand/or a user variable output voltage to instrument 102 duringoperation, such as to permit the intensity of the light 114 (shown inFIG. 1) to be adjusted.

In this example, the power source 124, charging circuitry 128, and boostconverter 152 all operate as described with reference to FIG. 2, exceptthat the boost converter 152 is configured to receive an input from theprogrammable controller 172, and to adjust the output voltageaccordingly.

The variable power supply 150 receives power from power source 124, suchas one or more super capacitors. A voltage at a capacitor decreasesrapidly over time, and can quickly be reduced to below a minimumoperating voltage required to power the instrument 102. (In anotherpossible embodiment, described herein, the power source 124 includeselectronics that adjust the output characteristics of the capacitor,such as to mimic the output characteristics of a battery, or multiplebatteries.)

Accordingly, in this example the variable power supply 150 includes aboost converter 152 that boosts the voltage from the capacitor 124 to adesired level so that the electronic devices in the instrument 102 cancontinue to operate even after the voltage from the capacitor 124 hasdecreased below the minimum operating voltage.

In some embodiments, the boost converter 152 is an out bound buck-boostcircuit that delivers a regulated output voltage until the voltage onthe at least one capacitor has dropped to the minimum voltage that thespecific electro-chemical construction allows. As one example, someembodiments continue to supply the regulated output voltage until thevoltage on the at least one capacitor 124 has dropped to approximately0.5 v.

The variable control 126 receives input from the user, such as ahealthcare provider, to turn the power handle 104 on and off, or adjustthe output of the power handle 104. The variable control 126 alsoreceives inputs from the user that indicate a desire for the power tothe instrument 102 to be increased or decreased. The input from variablecontrol is provided to the programmable controller 172.

The boost regulator 170 receives power from the capacitor 124 andmodifies the power into a form required by the programmable controller172, such as having a substantially constant fixed voltage. This poweris then supplied to the programmable controller 172 to support theproper operation of the programmable controller 172.

The programmable controller 172 operates as an intelligent controllerfor the power handle 104. In some embodiments, data instructions arestored in a memory device, which may be a part of the programmablecontroller 172 (e.g., on-board memory) or a separate memory device thatis readable by the programmable controller 12. The data instructions areexecuted by the programmable controller 172 to perform operationsdefined by the data instructions.

One example of the programmable controller 172 is shown in FIG. 5, whichincludes a processing device. Examples of processing devices includemicroprocessors, central processing units, microcontrollers,programmable logic devices, field programmable gate arrays, digitalsignal processing devices, and the like. Processing devices may be ofany general variety such as reduced instruction set computing devices,complex instruction set computing devices, or specially designedprocessing devices such as an application-specific integrated circuitdevice.

The programmable controller 172 receives user input from the variablecontrol 126, and operates in conjunction with the boost converter 152 togenerate a user variable output to the instrument 102. The boostconverter 152 compensates for the decreasing voltage of the capacitorover time, while the programmable controller 172 provides inputs to theboost converter 152 to adjust the output power to the level desired bythe healthcare provider.

Some embodiments include accelerometer circuitry 174. An example of theaccelerometer circuitry 174 is shown in FIG. 10, and includes at leastan accelerometer. In some embodiments, the accelerometer detects anorientation of the power handle 104 with respect to the earth, andmovement of the power handle 104. In some embodiments, the accelerometerdetects orientation and movement in three axes, including a verticalaxis and two perpendicular horizontal axes. In some embodiments, theaccelerometer provides orientation and acceleration information relatingto three dimensions.

FIGS. 4-5 illustrate a more detailed example of the power handle 104shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 4 (including FIGS. 4A and 4B) is an electrical schematic of anexample boost converter 152 of the electronic circuitry 122 shown inFIG. 3. The boost converter 152 includes an integrated circuit 192,circuit points TP1 to TP12, inductors L1-L4, Schottky diodes D1 to D4,capacitors C1 to C16, resistors R1 to R15, and a metal oxidesemiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) Q1.

The integrated circuit 192 is, for example, a 4-phase synchronousstep-up DC/DC converter, such as Part No. LTC3425 distributed by LinearTechnology Corporation of Milpitas, Calif. Other converters are used inother embodiments.

Power is received from the capacitor 124 at circuit point TP3, which issupplied to inductors L1, L2, L3, and L4, through Schottky diodes D1,D2, D3, and D4, and output by MOSFET Q1. The integrated circuit 192detects the voltage being supplied by the capacitor and controls theswitching of the circuit such that the voltage is increased across theinductors L1, L2, L3, and L4 to the desired level.

In this example, the boost converter 152 is also configured to receivean input from the programmable controller 172, shown in FIG. 5, toprovide a user variable output voltage. The input is received by theboost converter 152 at the circuit point TP13 and is labeled asVOUTCNTL.

The output of the circuit at circuit point TP9, which is labeled asVOUT, is then provided to instrument 102.

FIG. 5 is an electrical schematic of an example circuit including aboost regulator 170 and a programmable controller 172. In this example,the boost regulator 170 includes an integrated circuit 194, an inductorL5, resistors R20 and R21, and a capacitor C21. The example programmablecontroller 172 includes a processing device 196, circuit points TP16 toTP46, resistors R18 to R26, and capacitors C17 and C18.

The integrated circuit 194 is, for example, a synchronous step-up dc/dcconverter, such as Part No. LTC3526LB distributed by Linear TechnologyCorporation. The boost regulator 170 is coupled to the capacitor 124 atthe circuit point labeled as S_CAP_V, and operates to generate asubstantially constant fixed voltage output (labeled as VREG) as neededto operate the programmable controller 172.

The programmable controller 172 includes a processing device 196. Anexample of the processing device 196 is a programmable system-on-chip,such as Part No. CY8C21434 distributed by Cypress SemiconductorCorporation of San Jose, Calif. The programmable system-on-chip includesa CPU and memory devices. The memory devices include static randomaccess memory (SRAM), static read only memory (SROM), flash memory. Theprogrammable controller 172 can also include a variety of other devices,such as clocks, input/output interfaces, digital and analog electronics,etc.

The programmable controller 172 receives inputs from the variablecontrol 126 at circuit points TP37, TP38, and TP39, and generates anappropriate output signal that is provided to the boost converter 152,at the circuit point labeled as VOUTCNTL. Circuit points TP37, TP38, andTP39 are inputs to the capacitance sensors provided by the programmablesystem-on-chip, where the inputs are received from the variable control126. In one example, the circuit point TP37 is an input to a capacitancesensor A, the circuit point TP38 is an input to a capacitance sensor B,and the circuit point TP39 is an input to a capacitance sensor C.

In this example, the power handle 104 includes a status indicator, suchas a light emitting diode (LED) indicator. The status indicator isoperable to illuminate with a specific color indicative of a status ofthe power handle. In one example, the status indicator is a singleindicator having three integral LEDs, including a red LED, a green LED,and a blue LED. The LEDs are operated by the programmable controller 172to indicate the status. For example, a yellow status light indicatesthat the power handle 104 is in need of charging, a blue status lightindicates that the power handle is charging, and a green status lightindicates that the power handle 104 is fully charged.

In some embodiments, the example circuit shown in FIG. 5 also includesaccelerometer circuitry 174. An example of the accelerometer circuitry174 is shown in FIG. 10.

Further, the devices are compatible with other 3.5 v powered products inthe market, including both LED and Halogen powered devices.

Using super capacitors instead of batteries offering nearly a lifetimeof charge cycles (>50,000) without filling the land fill with oldbatteries and in addition offers the ability to charge in about lessthan one minute improving workflows and overall reliability andavailability. The devices are also compatible with charging off the USB2.0 connections. It can be charged using the Welch Allyn 5 watt platformpower supply, for example.

The handles for the devices have an improved user interface (“UI”)offering up to 360 degree visual of remaining energy status, and ON/OFFwhen lifted from rest or put down for maximum energy conservation.

The handles also allow for dimming control using no moving partsenabling a sealed unit for improved cleaning and overall reliability.

The devices (or Battery-Free Green Series) come on to full brightnesswhen lifted up instantly. When any surface on a blue touch point iscovered with a thumb, the handles automatically begin to dim down in acontrolled rate of approximately three seconds. When, for example, thethumb is lifted, the intensity will remain where it was at that moment.If the thumb is put over the touch point again, the intensity reversesdirection upwards at the same rate and will again freeze at the pointthe thumb is lifted. It will continuously reverse intensity each time itis “touched.”

If the Battery-free Green series handle senses more than one finger overthe touch point, such as in a position when an Otoscope is used, theintensity freezes at that moment.

The Battery-Free Green Series automatically senses whether a Halogenbulb or LED bulb is installed upon every power up cycle and adjusts theoutput voltage range for maximum linearity when dimming.

The handle will glow green when the energy is in about the top 20percent of capacity and will blink amber when it is at about the bottom20% of the remaining energy range. It will be off otherwise.

In the AC charging station, it will take less than about one minute tocompletely charge.

In the USB charging station, whether it is hooked up to a computer or tothe 5 watt charger, it will take less than about 1 hour to completelycharge.

Using a travel charger, it will take less than about eight hours tocharge.

Both the AC and 5 watt chargers are designed and built to meet EnergyStar 2.0 standards for the maximum energy efficiency both when in useand in stand by modes.

The Battery-free handles are completely maintenance free and may notrequire service ever.

The charging stations can be configured as single handle chargers ordual handle versions. They will also be compatible with many devicesincluding future Welch Allyn hand-held devices.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example variable control 126. In thisexample, variable control 126 includes a flexible circuit board 202,electrical conductors 204, an insulating layer 212, and a conductivelayer 214. The flexible circuit board 202 includes an outer surface 216and an inner surface 218.

In some embodiments the circuit board 202 is formed of a flexiblematerial. The material is typically manufactured in a flat shape, butcan be bent into a desired shape, such as shown in FIG. 6. Ends of thecircuit board 202 can be fastened together to form a joint 220, with anysuitable fastener, such as a clip, adhesive, solder or weld joints, orother fasteners. Some embodiments are bent and joined together at joint220 to form a circuit board 202 having a substantially circular crosssection. The circuit board 202 is typically made from a substrate, suchas a flexible plastic. The flexible circuit board 202 includes aninsulating material, and can further include conductive traces formed onor within the insulating material. Additional electronic components canbe formed on or fastened to the flexible circuit board 202. In someembodiments the circuit board 202 is rigid and substantially inflexible.In some embodiments the circuit board 202 is molded into the desiredshape.

In this example, electrical conductors 204 are formed on outer surface216 of the flexible circuit board 202. An example of a conductivematerial suitable for electrical conductors 204 is copper. Gold or othersuitable metals or conductive materials are used in other embodiments.The electrical conductors include conductors 205, 206, 207, 208, 209,210, and other electrical conductors. Some embodiments include aquantity of electrical conductors 204 in a range from about 3 to about50, and preferably from about 9 to about 18. One example includes 12conductors 204.

The electrical conductors 204 are in the form of elongated strips,having a thickness, a width, and a height. Different embodiments canhave different dimensions. As one example, the width W of the electricalconductors 204 is in a range from about 0.01 inches to about 0.25inches. In another example, the width W is in a range from about 0.1inches to about 0.15 inches. The height H of the electrical conductors204 is in a range from about 0.5 inches to about 2 inches. In anotherexample, the height H is in a range from about 0.7 inches to about 1.3inches. Other embodiments have other dimensions. An example of thethickness of the conductor 204 is in a range from about 0.001 inches toabout 0.05 inches. Other embodiments have other dimensions.

An insulating layer 212 is formed over electrical conductors 204 and theouter surface 216 of circuit board 202. In some embodiments theinsulating layer 212 is a coating. In other embodiments, insulatinglayer 212 is a separate layer of material that is placed adjacent toouter surface 216 of circuit board 202. The insulating layer 212 formsat least a portion of housing 120 that protects and encloses thevariable control 126.

Some embodiments include a conductive layer 214 formed on the inner side218 of circuit board 202. The conductive layer 214 is separated fromelectrical conductors 204 by the insulating circuit board 202. In thisway, the conductors 204 and the spaced conductive layer 214 form aplurality of capacitors distributed around the circuit board 202. Insome embodiments the conductive layer 214 is a ground plane.

FIG. 7 is a plan view of another example variable control 126. In thisexample, the variable control 126 is formed of a substantially flatcircuit board 202. In some embodiments the circuit board 202 is flexibleand can be bent to have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape,or into another shape, as desired. In another embodiment, the circuitboard 202 is substantially rigid, and maintains a substantially flatshape. For example, a straight circuit board can be included within aflat region of a device's housing, such as the top, side, or back of amobile phone.

The variable control 126 shown in FIG. 7 includes features similar tothat shown in FIG. 6, such as the electrical conductors 204 provided onthe outer surface 216 of circuit board 202, an insulating layer 212adjacent the electrical conductors 204, and in some embodiments aconductive layer (not visible in FIG. 7) along the rear surface ofcircuit board 202. Additional electronic components and electricaltraces are included in some embodiments.

FIG. 7 also illustrates electrical connections between electricalconductors 204 and capacitance sensors. Although some embodimentsinclude a separate capacitance sensor for each electrical conductor 204,the number of capacitance sensors can be reduced by connecting multipleelectrical conductors 204 into a single capacitance sensor. In thisexample, three capacitance sensors are used, labeled as A, B, and C.More specifically, in this example capacitance sensor A is connected toconductors 206 and 209, capacitance sensor B is connected to conductors207 and 210, and capacitance sensor C is connected to conductors 205 and208. Additional conductors are included in some embodiments, and theadditional conductors can be similarly connected to the capacitancesensors A, B, and C in an alternating fashion as shown in FIG. 7. Byusing at least three capacitance sensors, the direction of movement canbe detected, as discussed with reference to FIG. 8.

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of an example variable control 126illustrating the receipt of an input from a user. An insulating layer212 of the housing 120 is not shown in FIG. 8 in order for theelectrical conductors 204 to be visible.

A user provides an input I to the variable control 126 by placing afinger on the housing in the vicinity of the variable control 126, suchas adjacent to the conductor 206. Upon doing so, the capacitance sensorA detects a change in the capacitance at the conductor 206. For example,an increased capacitance is detected.

The user then moves the finger across the variable control 126 in thedirection of arrow 250. As the input I from the finger moves away fromconductor 206, the capacitance sensor A detects a decrease in thecapacitance, while the capacitance sensor B detects an increase incapacitance at conductor 207. If the input continues in the direction ofarrow 250, the capacitance sensor B detects a decrease in thecapacitance as the input I from the finger moves beyond conductor 207and toward conductor 208, at which time the capacitive sensor C detectsan increase in capacitance.

FIG. 9 (including FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C) is a schematic diagramillustrating the detected capacitances at each capacitance sensor uponreceiving an input I as shown in FIG. 8. Three graphs are illustrated inFIG. 9, which show the capacitance detected by three differencecapacitance sensors over the same period of time. The first graph showsthe capacitance detected by a capacitance sensor A (C_(A)), the secondgraph shows the capacitance detected by a capacitance sensor B (C_(B)),and the third graph shows the capacitance detected by a capacitancesensor C (C_(C)).

At time t₀, no input is being provided to the variable control 126, andso capacitance sensors CA, CB, and CC all detect approximately the samenominal capacitance, which is, for example, the sum of the capacitancesbetween each conductor 204 connected to the respective capacitancesensor, and the conductive layer 214 along a rear surface of the circuitboard 202 (e.g., shown in FIG. 6).

At time t₁, the input I is provided to the variable control 126, inwhich the user places a finger on the variable control 126 adjacent toconductor 206, as shown in FIG. 8. The presence of the finger causescapacitance sensor A to detect an increase in the capacitance at timet₁.

The user then moves the finger in the direction of arrow 250, shown inFIG. 8. The input I is detected by capacitance sensor A as a decrease incapacitance, but as an increase in capacitance by capacitance sensor B.As a result, at time t₂ the capacitance has returned to the nominallevel at capacitance sensor A, but has increased at capacitance sensorB. As a result, the movement can be determined by the processor to be inthe direction of arrow 250.

If the movement continues in the direction of arrow 250, the capacitancesensor B detects a decrease in capacitance, while the capacitance sensorC detects an increase in capacitance. When the finger is adjacentconductor 208 at time t₃, the capacitance detected by capacitance sensorB has returned to the nominal level, while the capacitance atcapacitance sensor C has increased. The movement is determined by theprocessor to have continued in the direction of arrow 250, bydetermining the order in which the capacitance sensors detect anincrease in capacitance. For example, A, B, and then C. Similarly, anyinput that proceeds in the order of A to B, B to C, or C to A, willcorrectly be identified as being in the direction of arrow 250.

The finger is then removed from the variable control 126, causing allcapacitance sensors to detect a nominal capacitance at time t₄.

The variable control can similarly receive an input I in the oppositedirection as arrow 250. For example, an input can be provided by placinga finger adjacent conductor 208, and then moved across conductors 207,and then conductor 206. In this case, the capacitance will be detectedin the order of C, B, and then A. Similarly, any input that proceeds inthe order of C to B, B to A, or A to C will be correctly identified asbeing in the opposite direction as arrow 250.

The input I detected by the capacitance sensors is then utilized toadjust the operation of the device 100. For example, the input is usedin some embodiments to adjust the power or voltage output from variablepower supply 150.

The speed of the input I is also detected in some embodiments. The speedof movement can be determined by the amount of time between transitions,for example, the difference between time t₁ and time t₂. In someembodiments, a faster movement causes the variable power supply 150 tomake a larger magnitude adjustment in to the output, and a slowermovement causes the variable power supply 150 to make a smallermagnitude adjustment in the output.

In some embodiments, the direction of a first input I that is receivedfrom a user sets an increase direction for that use. For example, if afirst input I is in the direction of arrow 250, shown in FIG. 8, thedirection of arrow 250 is set as an increase direction. If further inputis received in the direction of arrow 250, the output is furtherincreased. If further input is received in the direction opposite arrow250 (e.g., a decrease direction), the output is decreased.

On the other hand, if the first input I is in the direction oppositearrow 250, that direction is set as the increase direction. Furtherinput received in the direction opposite arrow 250 causes the output tobe increased. If further input is received in the direction of arrow 250(e.g., the decrease direction), the output is decreased. In someembodiments the input direction is reset when the device is turned off(e.g., by providing one or more inputs in the decrease direction, byreturning the device to a charging station, or by selecting an offbutton).

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of theaccelerometer circuitry 174, shown in FIG. 3.

The accelerometer circuitry 174 includes at least an accelerometer 262.In some embodiments, the accelerometer 262 detects an orientation of thepower handle 104 or instrument 100, with respect to the earth, andmovement of the power handle 104 or instrument 100. In some embodiments,the accelerometer 262 detects orientation and movement in three axes,including a vertical axis (“z-axis”) and two perpendicular horizontalaxes (“x-axis” and “y-axis”). In some embodiments, the accelerometer 262provides orientation and acceleration information relating to threedimensions.

One example of a suitable accelerometer 262 is the 3-Axis, 10-bit/8-bitDigital Accelerometer having model number MMA8453Q, available fromFreescale Semiconductor, Inc. of Austin, Tex.

In some embodiments, the accelerometer circuitry 174 utilizes a two-wireinterface (such as an Inter-Integrated Circuit (“I²C”) bus) tocommunicate orientation and movement data to the processing device 196,shown in FIG. 5. The two-wire interface utilizes, for example, the I²Cserial clock (SCL) pins conductors (also labeled as XL_SCL) and the I²Cserial data (SDA) pins and conductors (also labeled as XL_SDA). Thetwo-wire interface connections are also shown in FIG. 5, which aresimilarly labeled as SCL and SDA, to permit communication between theprocessing device 196 (FIG. 5) and the accelerometer 262 (FIG. 10).

In some embodiments, the accelerometer 262 provides one or more of thefollowing features: (1) freefall or motion detection, (2) transientdetection (i.e., fast motion, jolt), (3) orientation with set hysteresisand z-lockout, (4) shake detection through motion threshold, and (5)single, double, triple, and directional tap detection. Any one or moreof these features can be used to provide enhanced techniques forreceiving inputs and interacting with the user.

FIG. 11 illustrates several exemplary operations that can be performedby the instrument 100 utilizing the accelerometer 262 (shown in FIG.10). FIG. 11 illustrates an example instrument 100 and associatedcharging cradle 106.

In some embodiments, the instrument 100 operates to automatically turnon when removed from the charging cradle 106, and to automatically turnoff when returned to the charging cradle 106.

When the instrument 100 is in the charging cradle 106, for example, theinstrument is typically held in a substantially vertical orientation.The instrument 100 does not typically need to be operating when in thecharging cradle, and so in this example the instrument 100 is turnedoff. However, when the instrument 100 is removed from the chargingcradle, it is likely that the user will want to use the instrument 100at that time. As a result, some embodiments operate to detect when theinstrument 100 is removed from the charging cradle 106 by lifting theinstrument 100 in a substantially vertically upward direction (directionD1). Upon detection of this movement, the instrument 100 turns on.

Similarly, if the instrument is returned to the charging cradle 106, itis likely that the user no longer desires to use the instrument 100 atthat time. Accordingly, in some embodiments the instrument 100 detectsthe insertion of the instrument 100 into the charging cradle bydetecting a substantially vertically downward movement (direction D2).Upon detection of this movement, the instrument 100 turns off.

In some embodiments, the orientation of the instrument 100 is determinedusing the accelerometer 262. In the illustrated example shown in FIG.11, the instrument 100 is oriented substantially vertically upward, suchthat a longitudinal axis (A1) of the instrument 100 is substantiallyaligned in the vertical (z-axis) direction. Other orientations are alsopossible. For example, the instrument 100 can also be laid on a flatsurface, and arranged so that the longitudinal axis A1 is oriented to besubstantially aligned in a first horizontal (x-axis) direction, or in asecond horizontal (y-axis) direction. The instrument 100 axis A1 canfurther be oriented at least partially in any two or more of thesedirections (i.e., in any direction in three-dimensions).

Additional operations and functions that can be performed by aninstrument 100 utilizing data obtained from an accelerometer areillustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 12-15.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 272 of turning ONan instrument 100. In this example, the method 272 includes operations274, 276, 278, and 280.

The method 272 begins, in this example, when the instrument 100 isturned OFF. In some embodiments, when the instrument is turned off, itis operating in a lower power sleep mode.

The operation 274 is performed to detect movement, such as using theaccelerometer 262, shown in FIG. 10.

When movement is detected, operation 276 is performed to determine ifthe movement detected in operation 274 matches one or more predetermineddirections, such as a substantially vertically upward direction. Forexample, the operation 276 determines whether the movement is in thedirection D1, shown in FIG. 11. The predetermined direction is, forexample, the direction that the instrument 100 would need to move inorder to be removed from the charging cradle 106, when the chargingcradle 106 is placed on a horizontal surface, such as a desk or countertop, or mounted to a vertical wall, for example.

Operation 278 is performed to determine if the orientation of theinstrument 100 matches one or more predetermined orientations, such as asubstantially vertical orientation. The predetermined orientation is,for example, the orientation of the instrument 100 that is required inorder to remove the instrument 100 from the charging cradle 106, whenthe charging cradle is placed on a horizontal surface, such as a desk orcounter top, or mounted to a vertical wall, for example.

If the results of operations 274, 276, and 278 (which can be performedany desired order) are all “YES,” the instrument determines that theinstrument 100 is being removed from a cradle, and thereforeautomatically turns the instrument 100 ON in operation 280.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 282 of turningOFF an instrument 100. In this example, the method 282 includesoperations 284, 286, 288, and 290.

The method 282 begins, in this example, when the instrument 100 isturned ON, such as using the method 272, shown in FIG. 10.

The operation 284 is performed to detect movement, such as using theaccelerometer 262 shown in FIG. 10.

When movement is detected, operation 286 is performed to determine ifthe movement detected in operation 284 matches one or more predetermineddirections, such as a substantially vertically downward direction. Forexample, the operation 286 determines whether the movement is in thedirection D2, shown in FIG. 11. The predetermined direction is, forexample, the direction that the instrument 100 would need to move inorder to be returned to the charging cradle 106, when the chargingcradle 106 is placed on a horizontal surface, such as a desk or countertop, or mounted to a vertical wall, for example.

Operation 288 is performed to determine if the orientation of theinstrument 100 matches one or more predetermined orientations, such as asubstantially vertical orientation. The predetermined orientation is,for example, the orientation of the instrument 100 that is required inorder to return the instrument 100 to the charging cradle 106, when thecharging cradle is placed on a horizontal surface, such as a desk orcounter top, or mounted to a vertical wall, for example.

If the results of operations 284, 286, and 288 (which can be performedany desired order) are all “YES,” the instrument determines that theinstrument 100 is being returned to the cradle, and thereforeautomatically turns the instrument 100 OFF in operation 290.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating a method 302 of operating aninstrument 100 in a transportation mode. In this example, the method 300includes a method 302 of temporarily turning OFF an instrument 100, suchas to place the instrument 100 into the temporary transportation mode,and also a method 304 of returning the instrument 100 to the normaloperating mode. In this example, the method 302 includes operations 310and 312, and method 304 includes operations 316 and 318.

The method 300 begins with the instrument 100 turned ON. The instrumentcan be turned on, for example, by removing the instrument from thecharging cradle 106, as illustrated in FIG. 12, or using other inputs,as described herein.

The method 302 operates to detect an input from a user indicating thatthe user wants to place the instrument 100 into a temporarytransportation mode. The temporary transportation mode can be used, forexample, when the user wants to continue holding the instrument but doesnot want it to continue operating. For example, the user may want toplace the instrument into the user's pocket or set it down somewhereother than in the charging cradle 106, and as a result the user wouldlike the instrument to temporarily turn off.

In this example, the operation 310 is performed to detect a tap inputfrom the user. A tap input is provided by the user by tapping one ormore fingers against the housing of the instrument. The tap input isdetected using the accelerometer 262, for example.

In some embodiments, a particular combination of taps is required inorder for the operation 310 to recognize the movement as a tap input.For example, the tap input may require one, two, three, or more taps.The taps may also be required to occur within a predetermined maximumperiod of time, but not less than a predetermined minimum period oftime.

Upon detection of the tap input, the operation 312 is performed to turnthe instrument 100 off. In some embodiments, the instrument is placedinto a lower power sleep mode. In other embodiments, the instrument isplaced into a lower power transportation mode, in which tap inputdetection continues to be active, in order to perform operation 316.

Once the instrument 100 has been turned off, the instrument 100 can thenbe transported, set down, or otherwise handled in operation 314.

The operation 316 is then performed to detect a tap input. The tap inputcan be the same or a different tap input as detected in operation 310.

Upon detection of the tap input in operation 316, the instrument 100 isturned on 318 to resume normal operation.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating a method 322 of automaticallyturning OFF an instrument 100 when the instrument is not in use. In thisexample, the method includes operations 324, 326, 328, and 330.

The method begins with the instrument 100 ON. The instrument can beturned on by using any one of the techniques described herein.

The operation 324 is performed to detect movement of the instrument 100.If movement is detected, the instrument 100 is determined to becurrently in use. Accordingly, the method 322 repeats the operation 324until no movement is detected.

Once no movement is detected, the operation 326 is performed todetermine whether a predetermined time period has elapsed since the lastdetected movement of the instrument 100. The operation 326 waits untilthe predetermined period of time has elapsed. In some embodiments,operation 330 is then performed to turn off the instrument.

In another possible embodiment, however, the operation 328 is performedto determine the orientation of the instrument 100. If the orientationof the instrument 100 is substantially aligned with one or morepredetermined orientations, then the instrument 100 is turned off 330.As an example, the predetermined orientations may be the orientation ofthe instrument 100 when it is placed on a flat surface (i.e.,horizontal) or when it is placed in the charging cradle 106 (i.e.,vertical).

A benefit of operation 328 is that it can help prevent the instrument100 from turning off when the instrument is being held very still duringuse. So long as the instrument 100 is not oriented as it would be if itwere set down on a flat surface, the instrument 100 continues to remainON.

Once the device is determined to not be currently in use (upon detectionof no movement, for a sufficient period of time, and optionally by beingoriented substantially in a given orientation), the operation 330 isperformed to turn off the instrument 100.

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary discharge curvefor an example capacitor 124. As shown in FIG. 16, the output voltagefrom the capacitor 124 is directly proportional to the amount (%) ofenergy that has been discharged from the capacitor. When the capacitoris fully charged, the capacitor's output voltage is at a maximum. Thevoltage decreases proportionally as the energy is depleted, until noenergy remains in the capacitor.

In contrast, FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplarydischarge curve of an example lithium ion battery. The output voltagedecreases much more gradually, varying only between about 3.5V and 4.1volts across most of the discharge curve. When the battery is nearlydepleted (e.g., around 90% discharged), the voltage decreases morerapidly.

Many electronic devices are designed to operate with batteries, whichsupplies a much more constant output voltage. Such electronic devicesmay not work if a capacitor were substituted in place of the battery,because the capacitor may not have a suitable voltage level to beginwith, and even if an adequate voltage can be initially provided, theoutput voltage will decrease too rapidly.

If, instead, a boost circuit is provided, such as described herein, asubstantially constant output voltage can be provided. However, aconstant output voltage can also be undesirable. For example, if theelectronic device includes a battery charge status indicator, such adevice may rely upon and require that the power source provide theexpected discharge curve. If it doesn't, the charge status indicator maysimply show that the battery is fully charged until the power source isdepleted.

FIG. 18 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a mimic circuit 342interfacing between a capacitor 124 and electronics 344. In someembodiments, the mimic circuit 342 transforms the output from thecapacitor 124 into an output suitable for the electronics 344, such asto mimic the discharge curve of one or more batteries. This permits thecapacitor 124 and mimic circuit 342 to replace one or more batteries forpowering the electronics 344, without requiring any changes to theelectronics 344. In other words, electronics 344 that are designed to bepowered by batteries, can instead by powered by one or more capacitors124 without modifying electronics 344.

The capacitor 124 can be one or more capacitors. Other power sources mayalso be used in other embodiments, such as a battery, a solar cell, orother power supply circuit.

The electronics 344 can be any electronic device. In some embodimentsthe electronic device is at least part of a handheld instrument, such asthe instrument 100 described herein. Typically the electronics 344 aredesigned to be powered by a certain power source, such as a battery.However the mimic circuit 342 permits the electronics to instead bypowered by a different power source, such as the capacitor 124, having adifferent output and/or discharge characteristic.

FIG. 19 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example of themimic circuit 342. In this example, the mimic circuit includes acapacitor characteristic detector 352, a characteristic converter 354,and output circuitry 356.

The capacitor characteristic detector 352 is electrically connected toand evaluates one or more characteristics of the capacitor 124. Oneexample of a characteristic of a capacitor is the voltage across thecapacitor 124. Another example of a characteristic of a capacitor is theamount of energy that has been discharged from the capacitor. Eithercharacteristic can be used to mathematically compute the othercharacteristic. In other embodiments, different characteristics can bedetermined by the capacitor characteristic detector.

One example of the capacitor characteristic detector 352 is an analog todigital converter. The analog to digital converter can be a part of aprocessing device (e.g., 196, shown in FIG. 5), part of the boostconverter (e.g., 192, shown in FIG. 4) or a separate device.

As one example, the capacitor characteristic detector 352 detects avoltage provided by the capacitor, which may follow the capacitordischarge curve illustrated in FIG. 16.

The characteristic converter 354 operates to convert the capacitorcharacteristic detected by the capacitor characteristic detector 352,and convert that characteristic into a desired characteristic. Oneexample of a desired characteristic is a voltage of a battery, accordingto a predetermined battery discharge curve.

One example of the characteristic converter 354 is a processing device(e.g., 196, shown in FIG. 5) which stores a lookup table encoding thepredetermined battery discharge curve, such as the exemplary dischargecurve illustrated in FIG. 17.

Because different power sources have different discharge curves, thecharacteristic converter can be configured to provide any desireddischarge curve. Even different batteries have different dischargecurves. Therefore, in some embodiments the discharge curve is selectedto match the discharge curve of a battery for which the electronics 344are designed to operate. Examples of batteries having various differentdischarge curves include lithium ion, Nickel-metal hydride, alkaline,and a variety of other batteries. The outputs of other non-battery powersources can alternatively be matched in yet other embodiments.

The output circuitry 356 generates the desired output characteristicdetermined by the characteristic converter 354. For example, the outputcircuitry 356 converts the output voltage from the capacitor 124 into adifferent output voltage, where the output voltage is the voltage thatwould be provided by a battery with the same percentage of discharge.

As one example, the output circuitry 356 includes a digital to analogconverter 366 and a power amplifier. The output circuitry 356 receivesan 8-bit digital input from the processing device 364, representing theappropriate output voltage. The digital to analog converter 366generates the desired output voltage. The power amplifier 368 thenamplifies the output, such as to provide an adequate current to drivethe electronics 344 at the output voltage.

FIG. 20 illustrates an exemplary battery replacement device 380. In thisexample, the battery replacement device 380 includes a capacitor 124, amimic circuit 342, and a packaging 382. The packaging 382 includes apositive terminal 384 and a negative terminal 386.

The battery replacement device 380 includes a packaging 382 that isarranged and configured to replace a battery in an electronic device.Accordingly, the packaging 382 is sized and shaped to fit within abattery compartment of the electronic device, and may have a size andshape that is the same as a corresponding battery, or a combination ofmultiple batteries (such as two or more batteries arranged in series orparallel). In particular, in some embodiments the battery replacementdevice 380 has a positive terminal 384 positioned at the same locationas the positive terminal of the corresponding battery, and a negativeterminal 386 positioned at the same location as the negative terminal ofthe corresponding battery (or batteries).

The capacitor 124 is arranged within the packaging 382 and iselectrically connected to the mimic circuit 342. Electrical conductorsconnect the mimic circuit and/or the capacitor 124 to the appropriateterminals 384 and 386.

In some embodiments, the packaging 382 is sized and shaped like abattery, such as any of the following batteries: AAA, AA, C, D,4.5-Volt, 9-Volt, Lantern, watch or coin style batteries, or any otherdesired battery configuration.

FIG. 21 illustrates another exemplary battery replacement device 390,showing that the battery replacement device can include multiplecapacitors 124. As with the example shown in FIG. 20, the batteryreplacement device 390 includes one or more mimic circuits 342 andpackaging 382. The capacitors 124 can be connected in series or inparallel, or in any combination thereof.

Additionally it should be noted that multiple battery replacementdevices can be used in some embodiments, such as being arranged inseries or in parallel. For example, the positive terminal of a firstbattery replacement device can be connected to a negative terminal of asecond battery replacement device and inserted into an electronic devicein place of two (or more) series-connected batteries.

FIGS. 22-24 illustrate an example dual charging station 402. It issometimes desirable to electrically power multiple charging stations 402from a single power source. For example, it is sometimes desirable toreduce the number of power cords. By charging multiple stations from asingle power source (with a single power cord), additional power cordsare not required.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an example dual charging station 402.In this example, the dual charging station 402 includes a master station404, a slave station 406, and a base 408.

The master station 404 is a charging cradle, such as the examplecharging cradle 106 illustrated and described with reference to FIG. 1.In some embodiments, the master charging station 404 includes a powercord through which power can be received from a wall receptacle.

The slave station 406 is also a charging cradle. In this example, theslave station 406 does not include a power cord, and instead obtainspower from the master station 404 through the base 408.

In another possible embodiment, the base 408 can have its own power cordfor receiving power from a wall receptacle. The stations 404 and 406 areboth powered by the base 408.

The example shown in FIG. 22 illustrates stations 404 and 406 havingdifferently sized and/or shaped receptacles. Accordingly, in someembodiments the stations 404 and 406 are configured for chargingdifferent instruments 100. For example, station 404 has a receptaclehaving a round cross-sectional shape, while the station 406 has areceptacle having a square cross-sectional shape. In another possibleembodiment, however, both stations 404 and 406 can have the same type ofreceptacle, such as for charging multiple instruments 100 at once.

Some embodiments include more than two stations, such as three or fourstations. Other devices may also be powered by connection or couplingwith one or more of the stations 404 and 406, or the base 408 in someembodiments.

FIG. 23 is another perspective view of the example dual charging station402 with one of the charging stations 406 removed to reveal features ofthe base 408.

Specifically, the base includes a connector 412. The connector 412 isconfigured to make an electrical connection between the base 408 and theslave station 406. A similar connector is provided on the other side ofthe base 408 for connection with the master station 404.

One or more electrical conductors are arranged in the base to conductelectricity between the master station 404 connector and the slavestation 406 connector 412. In this way the slave station 406 can bepowered by the master station 404.

FIG. 24 is a bottom perspective view of the slave station 406. The slavestation includes one or more ports 414 configured to receive pins fromconnector 412, shown in FIG. 23, to permit the slave station 406 toreceive power provided by the master station 404 through the base 408.

Additional Embodiments

Additional embodiments include the following, or any combinationthereof, or combinations thereof:

A device comprising a mimic circuit, for battery VI curves, derived froma super capacitor to facilitate a drop in, one for one, batteryreplacement in a device, wherein the mimic circuit fits into the samespace as a traditional battery volume including the super capacitor aswell.

A device wherein the device has a charge time of less than one minute.

A device further comprising a motion sensing feature, wherein thesensing feature can determine when the device is being transported.

A device further comprising a motion sensing feature, wherein thesensing feature can determine when the device is being used.

A device further comprising sense output feature to detect thedifference between Halogen and LED bulbs and adjust VI curvesaccordingly.

A device wherein the super capacitors can be made to different shapesthat conform to product shapes.

A device further comprising a 360 degree visual indicator ring ofindicating status of the remaining energy within the handle by changingcolors and flashing and/or combinations.

A device further comprising a 360 degree visual indicator ring ofindicating status of the remaining energy within the handle by changingcolors and flashing and/or combinations.

A device further comprising a user interface that takes advantage of theaccelerometer to anticipate how the device is being used or stored ormoved.

A device wherein the super capacitors yield ability to build sealeddevices that never require service and further enable improved cleaningbecause of the sealing.

A device wherein single or multiple cells may be stacked in series or inparallel for increased energy storage.

A device wherein super capacitors can be charged either while the deviceis physically on the patient or not.

A device further comprising a battery free handle backwards compatiblewith 3.5 v devices.

A device wherein the super capacitors can be configured in a portablepower pack mode.

A device wherein a device using super capacitors can be charged usingeither AC power supplies or from any USB compliant device.

A device wherein the super capacitors can be used in either digital ornon digital devices.

A device wherein the device is selected from the group comprisingvaginal speculum illuminators, laryngoscopes, temperature testingdevices, ECG devices, BP devices, SPO2 devices, SPOT monitors,otoscopes, episcopes, opthalmoscopes, digital imaging devices, hearingtesting equipment, or headlights.

A device further comprising a means to improve super capacitor life bycycle charging caps at the end of their charge cycle.

A device further comprising a means to boost the extremely low voltagedirectly off the super capacitor to a usable circuit voltage thereforeutilizing more of the available total energy stored.

A device further comprising an energy gauging method that enablesprecise understanding of total energy stored or total energy available.

A device further comprising a simplified constant current charger thatenables super fast charging.

A device wherein the super capacitor temporarily stores energy quicklywithin a device or even between devices using other super capacitors.

A device wherein the capacitor can be hot swapped.

A device wherein the super capacitors enable devices that derive theirpower from various forms of energy harvesting as a means to store energyquickly and safely.

A device wherein the device can be used in emergency medicine as devicesrequiring quick recharge are now made possible.

A charging station comprising: a module architecture configurable assingle or duals or modular to adapt to future shapes while still usingthe same charging techniques.

A device comprising: a super capacitor; and a dimming feature.

A device wherein the dimming feature comprises an accelerometer andcapsense combination.

A device further comprising a 360 degree touch surface for control ofthe intensity of the handle using capsense.

A device further comprising a user interface enabling multiple functionsout of a single touch such as sensing more than one finger andalternating variables after each touch and sensing multiple fingers.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way ofillustration only and should not be construed to limit the claimsattached hereto. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize variousmodifications and changes that may be made without following the exampleembodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, andwithout departing from the true spirit and scope of the followingclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A handheld medical device comprising: anelectronic device; a power source; an accelerometer operable to detectmovement and orientation of the handheld medical device; a processingdevice communicatively coupled to the accelerometer; and a memory devicestoring instructions that, when executed by the processing device, causethe processing device to automatically adjust an ON/OFF state of theelectronic device based at least in part on (i) a detected movement ofthe medical device, and (ii) a detected orientation of the medicaldevice at a time of the detected movement.
 2. The handheld medicaldevice of claim 1, wherein the ON/OFF state is automatically adjustedupon insertion or removal of the handheld medical device into or from acharging cradle.
 3. The handheld medical device of claim 1, wherein thehandheld medical device is automatically turned ON when theaccelerometer detects: (i) vertically upward movement of the handheldmedical device, and (ii) a vertical orientation of the handheld medicaldevice.
 4. The handheld medical device of claim 1, wherein the handheldmedical device is automatically turned OFF when the accelerometerdetects: (ii) vertically downward movement of the handheld medicaldevice, and (ii) a vertical orientation of the handheld medical device.5. The handheld medical device of claim 1, wherein the handheld medicaldevice is automatically turned OFF when (i) no movement is detected fora predetermined time period, and (ii) the orientation of the medicaldevice is determined to be one of: substantially vertical andsubstantially horizontal.
 6. The handheld medical device of claim 1,wherein the handheld medical device turns OFF when a tap input isdetected.
 7. The handheld medical device of claim 6, wherein the tapinput is at least two taps on the handheld medical device.
 8. Thehandheld medical device of claim 6, wherein the handheld medical deviceturns ON when a second tap input is detected.
 9. The handheld medicaldevice of claim 8, wherein while the handheld medical device is OFF thehandheld medical device operates in a transportation mode, and wherein,when in the transportation mode, the handheld medical device continuesmonitoring for the second tap input.
 10. A handheld medical devicecomprising: an electronic device; a power source; an accelerometeroperable to detect movement and orientation of the handheld medicaldevice; a processing device communicatively coupled to theaccelerometer; and a memory device storing instructions that, whenexecuted by the processing device, cause the processing device toautomatically adjust an ON/OFF state of the electronic device based atleast in part on (i) a detected vertical movement of the medical device,and (ii) a detected vertical orientation of the medical device at a timeof the detected movement.
 11. The handheld medical device of claim 10,wherein the electronic device is a light source.
 12. The handheldmedical device of claim 10, wherein the power source, the accelerometer,and the processing device are housed within a power handle, and whereinthe light source is part of an otoscope instrument.
 13. The handheldmedical device of claim 10, wherein the handheld medical device includesa portion arranged and configured to be inserted into a receptacle of acharging cradle when the portion of the handheld medical device isvertically aligned with a vertical axis of the receptacle of thecharging cradle.
 14. The handheld medical device of claim 13, whereinthe detected vertical movement and the detected vertical orientation arealigned with the vertical axis of the receptacle of the charging cradle.15. The handheld medical device of claim 14, wherein the electronicdevice turns ON automatically when the handheld medical device isremoved from the charging cradle.
 16. The handheld medical device ofclaim 14, wherein the electronic device turns OFF automatically when thehandheld medical device is placed into the charging cradle.
 17. Thehandheld medical device of claim 14, wherein the electronic device doesnot turn off automatically when the handheld medical device is laidhorizontally on a table until a predetermined period of time has lapsedwithout detecting movement.